How to Wear a Yarmulke: 5 Steps - wikiHow Community Q&A A yarmulke, often called by its Hebrew name kipah (kee-pah) or sometimes referred to as a skullcap, is considered in traditional Judaism as a barrier between the individual wearing it and God. Typically worn by observant Jewish men and boys, yarmulkes serve as a reminder that there are spiritual levels separating themselves and divinity, and that the almighty God is always above, always watching. Therefore, yarmulkes are very important in Judaism. Steps 1 Pick out a yarmulke that you are comfortable wearing. There are many different sizes, as well as styles, colors, designs, and patterns to choose; from traditional silk to customized leather with sport team logos! You can buy yarmulkes online or at a Judaical store. 2 Wear the yarmulke at all times. However, you do not have to wear it when sleeping, bathing, swimming, etc. If desired, you can purchase clips or bobby pins to fasten the yarmulke in place so it does not fall off in the wind, or while doing strenuous activities.

3 Most importantly, wear the yarmulke on Shabbat , when in a synagogue, or at any Jewish religious ceremony or service. 4 Place it on your head at the appropriate times, whenever anyone else is wearing one. It's that simple! Some Jews who are of Orthodox , and some Conservative affiliations choose to wear a Yarmulke at all times, during all regular day activities. 5 Remember a Yarmulke is considered a barrier, however, the object itself is not considered to contain any physical religious value, so don't worry if you drop it. No one will be offended. Community Q&A Kippah (Yarmulke) - Jewish Religious Garment By Ariela Pelaia Updated July 27, 2016. Kippah (pronounced kee-pah) is the Hebrew word for the skullcap traditionally worn by Jewish men. It is also called a yarmulke or koppel in Yiddish. Kippot (plural of kippah) are worn at the apex of a person's head. After the Star of David , they are probably one of the most recognizable symbols of Jewish identity. Who Wears Kippot and When?

Traditionally only Jewish men wore kippot. However, in modern times some women also choose to wear kippot as an expression of their Jewish identity or as a form of religious expression. When a kippah is worn varies from person to person. In Orthodox circles Jewish men usually wear kippot all the time, whether they are attending a religious service or going about their daily lives outside of the synagogue. In Conservative communities men almost always wear kippot during religious services or during formal occasions, such as during a High Holiday dinner or when attending a Bar Mitzvah . In Reform circles, it is equally common for men to wear kippot as it is for them not to wear kippot. Ultimately the decision about whether or not to wear a kippah comes down to personal choice and the customs of the community an individual belongs to. Religiously speaking, wearing kippot is not obligatory and there are many Jewish men who do not wear them at all. What Does a Kippah Look Like? Originally all kippot looked the same. They were small, black skullcaps worn at the apex of a man's head. However, nowadays kippot come in all sorts of colors and sizes.

Visit your local Judaica shop or a market in Jerusalem and you will see everything from knitted kippot in all the colors of the rainbow to kippot sporting baseball team logos. Some kippot will be small skullcaps, others will cover the entire head, and yet others will resemble caps. When women wear kippot sometimes they select ones made of lace or that are adorned with feminine decorations. Both men and women usually attach kippot to their hair with bobby pins. Among those who wear kippot, it is not uncommon to have a collection of different styles, colors and sizes. This variety allows the wearer to select whichever kippah suits their mood or their reason for wearing it. For instance, a black kippah might be worn to a funeral, while a colorful kippah might be worn to a holiday gathering. When a Jewish boy has a Bar Mitzvah or a Jewish girl has a Bat Mitzvah , oftentimes special kippot will be made for the occasion. Why Do Jews Wear Kippot? Wearing a kippah is not a religious commandment. Rather it is a Jewish custom that over time has come to be associated with Jewish identity and showing respect for God.

In Orthodox and Conservative circles covering one’s head is seen as a sign of yirat Shamayim, which means "reverence for God" in Hebrew . This concept comes from the Talmud, where wearing a head covering is associated with showing respect for God and for men of higher social status. Some scholars also cite the Middle Age custom of covering one's head in the presence of royalty. Since God is the "King of Kings" it made sense to also cover one's head during prayer or religious services, when one hopes to approach the Divine through worship. According to author Alfred Koltach, the earliest reference to a Jewish head covering comes from Exodus 28:4, where it is called mitzneft and refers to a part of the High Priest's wardrobe. Another biblical reference is II Samuel 15:30, where covering the head and face is a sign of mourning. Sources: "The Jewish Book of Why" by Alfred J. Koltach. Jonathan David Publishers, Inc. New York, 1981. Why Do We Wear a Kippah? - Questions & Answers Questions & Answers Why Do We Wear a Kippah? Why Do We Wear a Kippah?

Discuss (33) Question: Is the kippah a symbolic reminder intended to prevent assimilation, or is the kippah a biblical obligation, like the tzitzit? Answer: The tradition to wear a kippah is not derived from any biblical passage. Rather, it is a custom which evolved as a sign of our recognition that there is Someone “above” us who watches our every act. The Talmud 1 relates that a woman was once told by astrologers that her son is destined to be a thief. To prevent this from happening, she insisted that he always have his head covered, to remind him of G‑d’s presence and instill within him the fear of heaven. Once, while sitting under a palm tree, his headcovering fell off. He was suddenly overcome by an urge to eat a fruit from the tree, which did not belong to him. It was then that he realized the strong effect which the wearing of a kippah had on him. In Talmudic times, the practice of wearing a headcovering was reserved for men of great stature. In later generations, though, it became the accepted custom for all Jewish men to wear a kippah at all times, and especially during prayer.

As with all Jewish customs, once they become a universally accepted Jewish practice, they become halachically obligatory. According to some opinions, since wearing a kippah has become a form of distinction between Jews and non-Jews, failure to wear a headcovering falls under the prohibition of “you shall not follow their statutes.” 2 Click here for more about the kippah. Footnotes Kippah: A Blessing On Your Head » Prayer & Blessings Kippah: A Blessing On Your Head It is perhaps the most instantly identifiable mark of a Jew. When and why do we wear a kippah? by Rabbi Shraga Simmons It is perhaps the most instantly identifiable mark of a Jew. In the Western world, it is customary to remove one's head covering when meeting an important person. In Judaism, putting on a head covering is a sign of respect. The uniqueness of a Jewish head covering is hinted at in the blessing we say every morning, thanking God for "crowning Israel with splendor" (Talmud – Brachot 60b) The kippah is a means to draw out one's inner sense of respect for God.

The Talmud says that the purpose of wearing a kippah is to remind us of God, who is the Higher Authority "above us" (Kiddushin 31a). External actions create internal awareness; wearing a symbolic, tangible "something above us" reinforces that idea that God is always watching. The kippah is a means to draw out one's inner sense of respect for God. It's easy to remember God while at the synagogue or around the Shabbat table. But Jewish consciousness is meant to pervade all aspects of our lives – how we treat others, how we conduct business, and how we look at the world. Appropriately, the Yiddish word for head covering, "yarmulke," comes from the Aramaic, yira malka, which means "awe of the King." In Hebrew, the head covering is called "kippah" – literally "dome." Making a Statement To wear a kippah is to proclaim "I am a proud Jew." There is a fascinating phenomenon whereby non-observant Jews visiting Israel will wear a kippah for the duration of their stay.

It may be out of a sense that the entire Land of Israel is holy like a synagogue. Or it may be the removal of any self-consciousness that can often accompany public expression of Jewishness in the diaspora. A kippah is the sign of a Torah ambassador and reflects on all Jews. Indeed, wearing a kippah is a big statement, and obligates the wearer to live up to a certain standard of behavior. A person has to think twice before cutting in line at the bank, or berating an incompetent waiter. Wearing a kippah makes one a Torah ambassador and reflects on all Jews. The actions of someone wearing a kippah can create a Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name) or conversely a Chillul Hashem (desecration of His name). Of course, putting on a kippah does not automatically confer "role model" status. Sometimes we unfortunately hear of a religious person caught in some indiscretion. I recall one time in Los Angeles, noticing that a drunken, disheveled man was walking down the street – wearing a kippah! He wasn't Jewish, but he'd found an old kippah and thought it helped him fit in with the neighborhood atmosphere.

For me, it drove home the idea that it's not fair to "judge Judaism" based on someone displaying the outer trappings of observance. When to Wear a Kippah? From a biblical standpoint, only the Kohanim serving in the Temple were required to cover their heads (see Exodus 28:4). Yet for many centuries, the obligatory custom has been for Jewish men to wear a kippah all the time, as the Code of Jewish Law says, "It is forbidden to walk four cubits without a head covering." Does a kippah have to be worn while playing sports? This issue came to the fore recently with the publicity surrounding Tamir Goodman, the basketball sensation who is an observant Jew. The answer is that it is preferable to wear even a small kippah, pinned to the hair. (Velcro works great!) If it is impossible because of the game conditions or rules, it is okay to play without a kippah. When bathing or swimming, one does not wear a kippah. Certainly, a head covering is obligatory while engaged in prayer and Torah study. What kind of head covering qualifies? Basically anything – including a baseball cap or a scarf tied around one's head.

Of course, in the synagogue, it is more respectful to use a regular kippah. A kippah should be large enough to be seen from all sides. How large must a kippah be? Rabbi Moshe Feinstein states that the minimum measure is that "which would be called a head covering." Rabbi Ovadiah Yosef says the kippah should be large enough to be seen from all sides. The style of kippah worn can reflect an interesting sociological phenomena, often denoting a person's group affiliation. For example, yeshivah-style Jews wear a black velvet kippah. Modern Orthodox Jews often wear a knitted, colored kippah. Many Chassidic Jews wear a fur hat (shtreimel) on Shabbat and holidays. Additionally, many also wear a hat when they pray to increase awareness of the Almighty as they stand before Him. (Mishne Brura 183:11) Business Questions What about instances where wearing a kippah conflicts with business and career interests? Rabbi Moshe Feinstein writes that in certain cases, there is room to be lenient.

For example, a trial lawyer might not be properly serving his client if the jury will be distracted by the kippah. U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman may use a similar line of reasoning. Of course this can cut both ways. A prominent businssman once told me that for every client "lost" because of his kippah, there were two clients gained, who respected his display of integrity and courage in wearing a kippah. The story goes that Rabbi Levi Yitzhak of Berditchev once saw a man running. "Where are you running to?" the rabbi asked. "I have to get to my job," the man said. The rabbi retorted: "Perhaps your livelihood is in the other direction – and you're running away from it!" For many seeking to express their Jewish identity, "to kippah or not to kippah?" – that is the question. Here are two fascinating first-person accounts of how to deal with this issue: • "The Kippah Debate" by Richard Rabkin Related Articles: More by this Author > Rabbi Shraga Simmons grew up trekking through snow in Buffalo, New York, enjoying summers as a tour guide at Niagara Falls.

He holds a degree in journalism from the University of Texas at Austin, and rabbinic ordination from the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem. He is the co-founder of Aish.com, and founder of the Torah study site, JewishPathways.com . He is also the co-founder of HonestReporting.com, and author of "David & Goliath" , the definitive treatment of media bias against Israel (2012). He lives with his wife and children in the Modi'in region of Israel. Give Tzedakah! Help Aish.com create inspiring articles, videos and blogs featuring timeless Jewish wisdom. The opinions expressed in the comment section are the personal views of the commenters. Comments are moderated, so please keep it civil. Visitor Comments: 39 (32) Anonymous, October 30, 2012 6:44 PM Who wears a kippah who wears a kippah? Everyone? Just men? Who? Anonymous, March 23, 2015 6:02 PM Women have an innate understanding of G-d's presence. Men need the extra reminder, only men wear kippot.

(31) Rachel, March 24, 2011 11:57 PM Roman Catholic clergy In ancient Rome, the mark of a slave was an uncovered head. Christians adopted this symbolism (for men) as the servants of G-d. As the Chuch became more of a societal institution, the bishops (including the Pope) began to wear something on their heads as a mark of their authority. Btw, Roman Catholic women were required to cover their hair in church until the 1960's -- but this was abolished because it had become common throughout societies and cultures for women to have uncovered hair without any negative connotations. (I know when I was a child in the 1960's, my grandmother and mother would not dream of even going around the corner to the supermarket without being properly dressed, including a hat.) Anonymous, August 21, 2012 1:03 AM Where do you find that about clergy? I found the comment about Roman slaves having uncovered heads and its effects to be fascinating, so I tried to look it up. I couldn't find anything. Something about certain freed slaves being presented with a specific type of hat (pileus) but that's it.

But I'm not a historian and I was only able to read through popular sources. (I would be willing to slog through a journal article if I could find the right one.) Anyway, if anyone can confirm or deny this and/or point me to some sources, I would very much appreciate it! Thank you. (30) miriamwcohen, March 24, 2011 4:14 PM historical references This Kippa covering issue is a relatively modern issue. My father, a very religious and observant Jew when living in Berlin in 1920 to 1938 when we were expelled, did not wear a head covering. And in the US for as long as he lived; he died in 1952, wore a hat outside the home, but these were in the hat wearing days, and a yarmulke in the house when he was eating., davenning, bentching, etc. It is only recently that male Jews wear their kippa publicly in various places. And if you are anywear aware of the trend, women Rabbis in the Conservative and Reform movements, wear kippot in public.

This whole issue leads me to the conclusion that it is not so much a religious issue, but one of a modern convention in a free society. In today's modern Paris, where Jews wearing Kippot are attacked, the Rabbis have told the young men not to wear them publicly as it is a "Sakana" (danger) So while this is an interesting discussion for some of us, it needs to be addressed thoughtfully. As most things in life today , a glib answer to this is not the proper answer at all times. Rachmiel Travitz, March 29, 2011 4:08 PM Germany was different You cannot bring a proof from Germany, because the Halachic authorities a long time ago dealt with the decree of the German Monarchy (i forget which year) that if a Jew does not dress like a Gentile (which btw, is totally forbidden. see my comment below) then his 'blood is free', G-d forbid...

The later authorities state that we can't say even though there is no longer any physical danger, dressing like gentiles in Germany is forbidden, because it is already a set thing there to dress like them and G-d forbid to learn prohibitions on fellow Jews, when it started because they were forced. the same thing would apply to Paris, I guess, but generally, it is totally prohibited to walk even 4 steps without a Kippah (see the sources in my comment below) (29) Andrea, March 24, 2011 3:36 PM funny story Regarding the comment about Catholics covering their head. I was on vacation with my family over 10 years ago - we were traveling through the South (I think we were in Georgia). We stopped for gas and my husband went to pay the attendant who noticed my husband's kippah and asked "Are you Catholic?" As he got back into the car my husband said to me "I wonder if I'm the first Jew he ever met". I also see non Jews wearing a yarmulke out of respect when at a Jewish function. I feel funny seeing it but understand it.

Shlomi, September 12, 2011 3:36 PM When in Rome A non-Jew wears a kippah at Jewish religious events because it is required, and it is respectful. As a locksmith when I go into an Asian person's house, I remove my shoes, because it is respectful. There is a synagogue down in the city, Ahavath Achim, that even provides little doilies for women visitors. It's not halacha, doesn't 'cover' her hair, but it sets the tone that there are standards, and a mode. It says,'we welcome you' yet doesn't throw tradition out the window. (28) Daniel W Krueger, March 24, 2011 12:52 AM My kippah is like a tie in the US business world I observe the command to cover my head - I also take the opportunity to make it personal for me in greater society. I am blessed to have a collection of nearly 100 kippahs. I work in a very US company and am one of just a few Jews, and most (if not all) of the others are not very observant.

I wear kippah all the time, and I do make sure its color matches my clothing of the day (usually my shirt) so I select by color and pattern based on that. I do have a few (are 20 a few??) that can go on the head with any selection of clothes. When I attend a B'M celebration at that time I do wear the family kippah out of respect for their purchase. I usually leave them in the bin at the entrance to the sanctuary, easy because they usually cover my existing kippah which stays on. I do select my kippah based on my clothing so not to clash :) In the words of TJ Maxx - I have my inner Jew fashionista time with my kippah selection every day! (27) Richard Coren, March 23, 2011 10:11 PM Catholic use of kippah Re your article on Kippah; Many years ago , when I was student at Gratz College for Jewish studies in Philadelphia, Prof Saul; Wachs commented that the Catholic custom that their Bishops wear a kippah is due to their copying the Hebrew custom of respecting God by doing so.

Shortly after, when i was in Florida i came across a newspaper comment by a Catholic priest stating that Jews did not originally wear kippot but adopted them later, copying the custom of the high Catholic clergy. I believe Wachs but would appreciate having corroboration by some scholar of religious history. Richard Coren coren10@comcast.net (26) Anonymous, March 23, 2011 9:05 PM Goyim wear Kippah out of respect for the Jewish traditions when attending services at local synagogue. I am not Jewish, but I feel I should wear the Kippah at synagogue our of respect and love for the Jewish people and the Jewish traditions. Do you feel I should not do this? I do not want to offend in anyway. (25) Joseph, March 23, 2011 6:33 PM Yiddish word for Kippah First of all, the word used in the Gemara is "Sudar". Secondly the Yiddish word for it is "koppel". Third, Yarmulka is a Turkic word for a small cap that probably bled into modern Yiddish through Podolia.

(24) maurice medoff, March 23, 2011 5:35 PM yarmulke Turtic not aramaic? The philolgogy/linguistics has been associated with in my recollection with the influence of Turtic language. Can you comment further research? (23) a.h, March 23, 2011 3:47 PM A BLESSING UPON YOUR HEAD Maybe like the mizuza. A reminder of the control of input allowed in. (22) Ron, March 23, 2011 3:36 PM Goyim Need Not Wear Yarmulkas When a non-Jew enters a shul or goes to The Wall for some odd reason they feel obligated to put on a Yarmula. This is not neccersary. The obligation is on a Jew where ever he is and not the location.

(21) david lejbik, March 23, 2011 2:49 PM the code of dress fo a jew is stated in vayikra to be"not what the other nations wear"; in this regard the kippah is the easiest and most obvious way to acieve this mtzvah and bolster your own yiddishness .In my experience the gentiles resp wearing a kippah is an easy way to be torah true to jewish fashion;that is the torah says in vayikra that the apparel of the jew should be whatever the gentiles around don"t wear.Our uniform should not copy theirs.The yarmulka is a great way to be makayim that mtzvah and at the same time boslster your own identity as a jew.I find that in my experience the gentiles respect a frum jew more than one who is "passing" .keep wearing those jewish uniforms and good things will become the jewish peopl throug unity Rachmiel Travitz, March 29, 2011 4:11 PM 100% true...

but just to add not just kippot, but other clothing as well... though those laws are complex, and this is not the place... i highly reccomend the sefer 'Minhag Yisrael Torah', the volume on Chukat HaGoy, if you are interested (20) Lloyd Oestreicher, March 23, 2011 5:40 AM kippah The kippah is between man and God. Jews comprise 3% of the worlds population. If the kippah is a distraction to the world around us, lose it in public. I wear my yarmulke in synagogue. IrisB, March 23, 2011 4:50 PM Personal choice I agree that sometimes the yarmulke could be a distraction and at those times, one should remove it. Jews would be exerting an even greater influence in the world, if we numbered 3% of the world's population. Given that there are over 5 billion people and Jews number maybe 25 million, our percentages is closer to less than 1/2 of 1%. Our numbers should only be 3%!

(19) Seth, August 28, 2008 4:16 PM Mazol Tov Yari! I have the GMAT coming up & I too will wear my Kippah! (18) A student of Religions, August 22, 2008 12:46 AM Thank you for featuring this article it was very helpful to a school project I am doing. (17) Anonymous, July 16, 2008 8:38 AM I'm not Jewish, but I think the idea behind the kippah is really interesting. Would it be wrong of me to wear one, even though I'm not Jewish? (16) Yari, July 1, 2008 9:45 AM My Kippah is always on my head. My SAT was 1580. TA! (15) anonymous, May 23, 2008 6:35 PM Thankyou this was a very interesting article and helped me with my school project.

(14) Mati, February 11, 2008 5:01 AM I'm in the military and I wear mine at all times. There is even a regulation allowing me to do so. (13) Anonymous, February 1, 2007 11:16 AM Ta this helped me sssooooooooo much with my home work!! this site was brill 4 my skool religion project on jewish culture (9) David Winer, March 10, 2005 12:00 AM I believe another basis for the tradition of wearing a kippah is found in Shabbat 156b - The mother of Rabbi Nachman bar Yitzchaq says to him: "Cover your head so that reverence for God be upon you." There is something precious about an origin which has a Jewish mother saying, in effect, "Now sonny, be sure to wear your cap!" (8) Moshe Bernstein, September 22, 2002 12:00 AM Great Article! I'm fourteen years old, and my parents are very observant Orthodox Jews.

I always wear a kippah, and have since I was very small. I even wear it to school which is a Catholic School, besides the sometimes bullying and snatching it from my head, it's been fine. I thimk I'll always wear a kippah. To me it says to everyone that, "I'm a Jew, and I'm proud wether you like it or not." It has also helped me see if someones a friend, or an Anti-Semite. (7) Fay Lloyd, September 17, 2002 12:00 AM You're stuff is great!! I can't wait every week for more!! Kol Hakavod!! When our son started law school(about 14 years ago) at Fordham Law,(Jesuit school), the night before he started classes (we were already living in Israel,)he asked me what I thought about his going to classes with a kippah or without. I said that the decision was his and whichever one he made would be the right one.

Two weeks later he called back to say "I wore my Kippah, was the only one and would you believe that now there are 15 more Kipot and we're looking for a room (without a hanging Jesus) to daven mincha. I laughed. I was a proud mama! (4) Joshua Culp, September 4, 2002 12:00 AM Just Kippah! After I moved to school in the south I found myself in an area with very few Jews and almost none practicing. I was frequently asked questions about Judaism, the most popular was "where's your little hat." Even if we don't want to be representatives of Judaism, we are. In our multicultural society the general public knows who the Jews are and the know a little bit about our traditions. In most cases it's not them who has a problem with our kippot, it's we who are timid. My answer -- just wear it.

(3) Anonymous, September 3, 2002 12:00 AM To kippah or not to kippah There's a price to pay for wearing a kippah - whatever style - and perhaps there's even a greater price for not wearing one but in most cases it depends on how "comfortable" each Jew feels with his Yahadut and it's also very difficult and can also be hurtful to be under everyone's scrutiny about your beliefs and way of life.It's an individual's call. Joseph, March 23, 2011 6:30 PM Origins of word "Yarmulka Phil, you are correct. The word is Turkic in origin and the popularized Aramaic theory is really just that, an erroneous post hoc theory. (1) Allan Koven, September 1, 2002 12:00 AM Obviously then, women don't need the reminder. It this because they are created with a higher spiritual neshamah?

"The Talmud says that the purpose of wearing a kippah is to remind us of God, who is the Higher Authority "above us" (Kiddushin 31a). External actions create internal awareness; wearing a symbolic, tangible "something above us" reinforces that idea that God is always watching. The kippah is a means to draw out one's inner sense of respect for God." How to Wear a Kippah Home » Services » Religious Services » How to Wear a Kippah How to Wear a Kippah Kippah or Yarmulke is a cap which most Jewish men wear. Jews wear these hemispherical-shaped caps to fulfil requirements of orthodox Halachic authorities or at some religious occasions. By wearing kippah Jews believe that they honour God. It is strongly recommended for all Jews men and boys to wear it at all times. Things Required: – Bobby pins or hair clips Others are Reading 1 Choose appropriate size First of all you need to determine the appropriate size of kippah. Note that it should be seen from all sides of your head. 2 Choose the right style Next you need to choose the style of kippah you want to wear.

Many Jews wear black velvet kippah while some modern orthodox wear coloured kippah. Note that Yeshivah-style Jews mainly wear black kippah. You can wear kippah with different designs and even can wear kippah in which your name is knitted. 3 Place the kippah properly You need to place yarmulke in the right way on your head. Place the head of the kippah in direction which points towards the back side of your head. 4 Slide it down on your scalp Next gently slide the kippah down on your head. Note that it should be flexible so it could fit on your head easily. 5 Use bobby pins Then use bobby pins starting from the right side. You need to attach bobby pin with hair and kippah at same time. Note that you can also use hair pins instead of bobby pins. 6 Placement of bobby pins Use pins to hold kippah to your hair. You can use as many pins as required to hold kippah to your hair. Try applying pins on side and back more. Note that there is no need of placing bobby pins or hair clips on the front of your head unless required.

7 Test the placement In the end you need to test you kippah is properly place on your head and does not falls when you move your head. 8 Wear kippah at appropriate times You need to wear kippah at the right times. According to Jewish laws, Men and young boys are strongly recommended to wear kippah at all time in order to respect God. Kippah - My Jewish Learning Kippah Ask the Expert: Which Kippah Should I Wear? A kippah (skullcap or yarmulke) is a small hat or headcovering . In traditional Jewish communities only men wear kippot (the plural of kippah) and they are worn at all times (except when sleeping and bathing). In non- Orthodox communities some women also wear kippot, and people have different customs about when to wear a kippah–when eating , praying , studying Jewish texts , or entering a sacred space such as a synagogue or cemetery. The Reform movement has historically been opposed to wearing kippot, but in recent years it has become more common and accepted for Reform men and women to cover their heads during prayer and Jewish study.

Show Me Your Yarmulke – Forward.com Under Cover from Jewish Daily Forward on Vimeo . If you see my husband and son walking on the street, you will instantly know that they’re Orthodox Jews — because they are wearing small, round cloth caps, more widely known as yarmulkes. Much like the sheitel, or wig, that many Orthodox women wear, you can tell a lot about a Jewish male by the type of yarmulke (also referred to as a kippah, or in Hasidic Yiddish, kapl) that he wears. Like the jacket and shirt on his back, the absence or presence of peyes, or sidelocks, the headgear announces to the world his family’s tradition and his Jewish denomination. Pious Jewish men have been covering their heads for hundreds of years, yet there isn’t necessarily a clear and definitive Jewish law, or Halacha, requiring it. Rather, it was one of many of the Jewish customs and traditions, known as minhagim, that evolved over the centuries to become de-facto Halacha, eventually becoming the most universal identifier of observant Jewish boys and men. Moses and the Israelites proudly left Egypt bareheaded, according to one Exodus explanation.

Later, according to the Babylonian Talmud, head covering was a pious practice exclusively for learned married men, possibly because it connoted humility. After the talmudic period, one can find a dizzying variety of evidence as to what the local practices were. By the 18th and 19th century, attitudes toward head covering hardened: As Ashkenazi Jews ubiquitously covered their heads in yarmulkes, not covering became something modern Jews would do. By the early 20th century, wearing a yarmulke became associated with Orthodox Judaism, although many men wore hats in place of yarmulkes in public. The halachic debate of whether one is required to wear a yarmulke thus shifted to the size one should wear: The bigger the yarmulke, according to popular convention, the more pious the wearer. All yarmulkes come in many sizes to fit the heads of children and adults. Hasidic men, who belong to the ultra-Orthodox movement founded by the mystic Baal Shem Tov in 18th-century Ukraine, customarily wear black velvet yarmulkes that cover three-quarters of their heads.

Subtle yet significant distinctions in the cut and rim are typically dictated by communal or familial traditions. In many Hasidic families, boys also wear a shlof-kapl — or sleeping yarmulke — a round-knit skullcap, usually white, that fits securely on one’s head. Most Orthodox men wear yarmulkes all day, starting from the age of 3 when a boy customarily gets his first haircut. Among the Modern Orthodox, small yarmulkes the size of a baseball, secured with hair clips, are more common. Conservative Jews also wear yarmulkes, generally in synagogue, and also often when sitting down to a meal and reciting the blessings. The yarmulke market has grown exponentially in the 21st century. In recent years, more and more women, mostly from Conservative and some Reform communities, have been wearing yarmulkes as well, typically during prayer services in synagogue. In an effort to demystify the yarmulke, what follows is a basic guideline to the current yarmulke trends, with a focus on Orthodox Jewish men in America. But a caveat, many wearers buck convention and choose what they personally prefer.

reform Your Comments The Forward welcomes reader comments in order to promote thoughtful discussion on issues of importance to the Jewish community. In the interest of maintaining a civil forum, The Forward requires that all commenters be appropriately respectful toward our writers, other commenters and the subjects of the articles. Vigorous debate and reasoned critique are welcome; name-calling and personal invective are not and will be deleted. Egregious commenters will be banned from commenting. While we generally do not seek to edit or actively moderate comments, our spam filter prevents most links and certain key words from being posted and the Forward reserves the right to remove comments for any reason. Ask the Expert: Which Kippah Should I Wear? - My Jewish Learning Ask the Expert: Which Kippah Should I Wear? Ask the Expert: Jews in the Hospital Question: Despite having Jewish ancestry, I never really observed the religion until during the last several months. There is obviously so much I have yet to learn, but have always been taught that it is proper etiquette for any Jewish male to wear a kippah at any part of a synagogue or its grounds that he visits.

However, this does give the impression that a man would be observant and know all the rituals/etiquette/customs well. In my case however, the appearance could be deceiving because I do not consider myself Orthodox (yet, at any rate) and don’t want to surprise people if I am not exactly what I appear to be. So, my question is are there any types of kippah that indicate a higher level of religiosity or awareness than others? I want to represent myself as honestly as possible especially since I am basically a newbie at being an observant Jew. –Benjamin, Singapore Answer: This is a great question, Benjamin. In our article about head coverings , we talk about how wearing a kippah can be a badge of membership and commitment to the Jewish people. Though the kippah itself doesn’t have any inherent meaning, it does serve as a marking of a Jewish person (usually a man) who is heavily invested in Jewish life. What you’re talking about is closely related to the famous Jewish concept of maarat ayin, or the appearance of impropriety. Basically, Jews are discouraged from doing anything that could appear inappropriate or wrong, even if it’s actually not problematic.

For example, a traditionally observant Jewish person who needs to use the bathroom while walking around a city on Shabbat would be discouraged from walking into a bank or a restaurant to use their facilities. It may be technically permissible to use a bank bathroom on Shabbat, but a passerby might see the person in the bank and think the person is going to withdraw or deposit money, which is prohibited on Shabbat. Maarat ayin is aimed at preventing behavior that could be misleading to others, and that’s exactly what you’re trying to avoid by wearing a kippah. By MJL Staff | August 3, 2009 Question: Despite having Jewish ancestry, I never really observed the religion until during the last several months. There is obviously so much I have yet to learn, but have always been taught that it is proper etiquette for any Jewish male to wear a kippah at any part of a synagogue or its grounds that he visits. However, this does give the impression that a man would be observant and know all the rituals/etiquette/customs well.

In my case however, the appearance could be deceiving because I do not consider myself Orthodox (yet, at any rate) and don’t want to surprise people if I am not exactly what I appear to be. So, my question is are there any types of kippah that indicate a higher level of religiosity or awareness than others? I want to represent myself as honestly as possible especially since I am basically a newbie at being an observant Jew. –Benjamin, Singapore Answer: This is a great question, Benjamin. In our article about head coverings , we talk about how wearing a kippah can be a badge of membership and commitment to the Jewish people. Though the kippah itself doesn’t have any inherent meaning, it does serve as a marking of a Jewish person (usually a man) who is heavily invested in Jewish life. What you’re talking about is closely related to the famous Jewish concept of maarat ayin, or the appearance of impropriety. Basically, Jews are discouraged from doing anything that could appear inappropriate or wrong, even if it’s actually not problematic.

For example, a traditionally observant Jewish person who needs to use the bathroom while walking around a city on Shabbat would be discouraged from walking into a bank or a restaurant to use their facilities. It may be technically permissible to use a bank bathroom on Shabbat, but a passerby might see the person in the bank and think the person is going to withdraw or deposit money, which is prohibited on Shabbat. Maarat ayin is aimed at preventing behavior that could be misleading to others, and that’s exactly what you’re trying to avoid by wearing a kippah. It seems to me that you have a few options. The first is to cover your head with something other than a traditional kippah. Many religious men wear hats instead of, or over their kippot. This allows them to cover their heads as tradition dictates, but to do so without marking themselves as Jews wherever they go. So if you can find a regular hat that you feel comfortable wearing in synagogue that is one way to avoid misrepresenting yourself to others. But if you’d like to stay within the genre of traditional kippot, there is quite a variety to choose from.

Ultra-Orthodox Jews tends to wear black velvet kippot, about the size of a salad plate. Men who don the black velvet kippah often wear a black fedora on top of the kippah, as well. If you don’t want to be mistaken for a very observant and knowledgeable member of the Jewish community, you should definitely avoid the black velvet kippah. In general, dark colored kippot, whether they’re leather, crocheted, or velvet, often are worn by members of more traditional communities. A kippah that’s white, or colorful , can imply a more modern outlook. A kippah with an obvious crease in it probably indicates that the kippah spends more time folded in the wearer’s pocket than on his head. This usually means that the person is observant enough to want to cover his head while attending synagogue or saying brakhot, but not all the time. The kippah that tends to indicate the lowest level of observance within the Jewish community is almost certainly the black (or white) silk variety that is often given out at funeral homes.

These basically function as single-use kippot for people who don’t already own a kippah, and thus is a reliable sign that the person is not an authority on Jewish practice. If you want to wear a kippah but avoid being seen as an example of an observant Jew, the black silk kippah is the way to go. I also want to mention that within the Reform movement, there are many people who do not wear a kippah at all. For decades, no kippot was the norm within the Reform community. This has shifted in the last 20 years, and you’re very likely to find men and women wearing kippot at any given Reform temple, but there are still many people, including Reform rabbis, who do not cover their heads, even while standing on the bimah at Temple. There are a lot of options here, and I hope one of them fits for you. But if they don’t, try not to worry too much about what other people might be thinking. Wear whatever kippah you’re comfortable with, and if someone asks you a question that you don’t know the answer to, just be honest.

It’s okay–even encouraged–to say, “I’m just learning this stuff, myself. Let’s go ask someone who knows a bit more about this.” Good luck! Kippah (Yarmulke) | Jewish Virtual Library Tweet Wearing of a head covering (yarmulka, skullcaps, kippah [pl. kippot]) for men was only instituted in Talmudic times (approximately the second century CE). The first mention of it is in Tractate Shabbat, which discusses respect and fear of God. Some sources likened it to the High Priest who wore a hat (Mitznefet) to remind him something was always between him and God. Thus, wearing a kippah makes us all like the high priest and turns us into a "holy nation." The head covering is also a sign of humility for men, acknowledging what's "above" us (G­d). Many Ashkenazi rabbis acknowledge that wearing a head covering at all times was once considered an optional midat chasidut (pious act), but, today, full­time head covering is the norm except under extenuating circumstances.

Sephardic communities generally did not have the custom of wearing a kippah all the time. Some diaspora Jews leave off the kippah at school, work, or when testifying in court, because of real danger or uneasiness in appearing in the secular world with an obvious symbol of Jewishness. In Israel wearing a kippah also has a social significance. While wearing a kippah shows that you are somewhat religious, not­wearing one is like stating, "I'm not religious." The style of kippah in Israel can also indicate political and religious affiliations. Classical orthodoxy uses a large, smooth, black one shaped like a bowl. Many Hasidim use large black felt or satin, and a "rebellious son" may wear a slightly smaller black kippah to show his independence while remaining in the Classicist camp. Another play on this rebellion is to wear a knitted black kippah. This is also usually used to confuse people as to where you stand. In Bukhara and the Caucasian Mountains the use of a large brightly woven kippah is common. It is similar in shape to a cantor's kippah without the peak.

This custom can also be found in other Sephardic communities. Knitted kippot typically signify that you are part of the Nationalist Zionist camp. A larger full headed knitted kippah would signify the Mercaz Harav branch of the movement that produces many of the leading rabbis within the Religious Zionist section, although many rabbis who teach at these institutions wear the traditional large black kippot. Sources: Shamash: and Eli Birnbaum, the World Zionist Organization Student and Academics Department: The Kippah (Skullcap) - Mitzvahs & Traditions Mitzvahs & Traditions Discuss (51) A kippah (literally: dome) is the Hebrew word for skullcap, also referred to in Yiddish as a yarmulke, or less frequently as a koppel. Jewish law requires men to cover their heads as a sign of respect and reverence for G‑d when praying, studying Torah, saying a blessing or entering a synagogue. This practice has its roots in biblical times, when the priests in the Temple were instructed to cover their heads.

Traditionally, Jewish men and boys wear the kippah at all times, a symbol of their awareness of, and submission to, a "higher" entity. Although it is not explicitly required by law, the practice is noted in the Talmud, and through the ages, this became an accepted Jewish custom to the point that according to the majority of halachic authorities, it is mandatory. One should, therefore, not walk or even sit, bareheaded. Small children should also be taught to cover their heads. Aside from the commonblack kippah, many wear kippot (plural form of kippah) of various colors or designs. Some communities have developed kippah designs that are highly intricate works of art, such as those made by Jewish artisans from Yemen and Georgia, most of whom now live in Israel. For more on the Kippah, click here and here .

Question: Who would wear a 'Yarmulke'?
Answer: A Jew